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Science News Archive May 2004


Page 9 of 13

Presence of certain eye disorders linked with poorer survival rates

Researchers from the National Eye Institute investigated the association between various types of visual impairment and eye disorders with mortality. The study found that participants with AMD had a 41% higher risk of death compared to those with little or no drusen, while advanced AMD was associated with cardiovascular deaths.

Women and heart disease: The role of diabetes and hyperglycemia

A study highlights the significant risk of cardiovascular disease in women with type 2 diabetes, emphasizing the importance of controlling blood glucose levels, managing cholesterol, and preventing diabetes. The researchers outline strategies for treating diabetic women and CVD, including intensive therapy and lifestyle modifications.

Who wants to talk about premature ejaculation?

A scientific working group found that renaming premature ejaculation could lead to confusion and require re-education. Instead, they recommend using the current term to describe the condition, which is associated with stigma rather than the name itself. The group also emphasizes the importance of open dialogue about male sexual health.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Patients report high levels of trust in medical specialists

Researchers found that patients with greater trust in their specialists report higher satisfaction, adherence, and lower likelihood of changing physicians. Trust was also linked to patient involvement in decision-making and quality of communication.

Calling for standards in cardiology data collection and analysis

The European Society of Cardiology is calling for consistency across Europe in terms of data collection and analysis in cardiology. The CARDS meeting aims to agree European data standards, enabling local, national and international comparisons of data using set standards.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Living wills don't work, study says

A comprehensive review of hundreds of studies on living wills finds they fail to meet five key criteria for success. The researchers argue that living wills offer a false promise of control over end-of-life treatment and recommend using durable powers of attorneys instead.

Botulinum toxin structure offers clues for vaccines/treatments

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have deciphered the structure of botulinum toxin, shedding light on its mechanism of action. By modifying a single amino acid, scientists created an inactive form of the toxin that retains structural similarity to the active form, paving the way for potential vaccine development.

UMHS study links gonorrhea, prostate cancer in men

A UMHS study found that African-American men with a history of gonorrhea are more likely to develop prostate cancer. The research suggests an inflammatory effect from the bacterial infection may trigger pre-existing cancerous cells to multiply, increasing risk.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Less educated people have lower stress, but more health effects

A study found that less educated individuals face higher daily stress levels, which have more significant negative impacts on their health. The researchers discovered that daily stressors vary by socio-economic status, with those in disadvantaged positions experiencing greater health downturns.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

High blood testosterone levels associated with increased prostate cancer risk

Researchers found a significant association between high blood testosterone levels and an increased risk of prostate cancer in older men. The study, which followed over 3,000 men for 40 years, also showed that the protein sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) was associated with a slightly decreased risk for prostate cancer.

Wisconsin chemists find a new chink in TB's armor

A team of chemists from the University of Wisconsin-Madison has identified a key enzyme essential for the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. Disrupting this enzyme could lead to the development of a new family of antibiotics, providing hope for millions of people affected by multidrug-resistant TB.

Researchers open new line of attack on tuberculosis

Researchers have detailed the workings of a key enzyme in tuberculosis bacteria's cell walls, which could lead to the development of new antibiotics. By understanding how this enzyme works, scientists can design inhibitors specific to it, potentially creating new treatments for TB and leprosy.

Patients happy with robo-doc

A study found that robotic doctor visits increased patient comfort and accessibility to medical information, with 57% suggesting it should become a standard practice. Patients preferred having their own physician conduct telerounds over others.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Software corrects chip errors early

The new software equips SEMs with a model library of possible line measurements, enabling accurate determination of circuit feature shapes and sizes. This reduces measurement errors from tens of nanometers to just a few nanometers, increasing reliability and efficiency in semiconductor manufacturing.

UNC study may help predict premature infants at risk of total blindness

A new UNC study identifies specific eye features that can predict when premature infants are at risk of developing retinal detachment and total blindness. The study found that certain blood vessel growth patterns and vitreous cloudiness may indicate the need for surgical intervention to prevent progressive stage 4 ROP.

Vanderbilt students take HHMI fellowships

Vanderbilt University Medical Center students James Peacock and Olga Weinberg have been awarded HHMI fellowships to pursue research in immunology and estrogen receptors. The fellowships will enable them to conduct academic-year-long research projects culminating in the Meeting of Medical Student Fellows.

Cannabinoids spell relief in colon inflammation

Max Planck researchers discovered that the body's own cannabinoid receptor acts as a protective system against colon inflammation. The study found that mutant mice lacking this receptor are more prone to inflammatory responses, but treatment with cannabinoids can alleviate inflammation in wild-type animals.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Deaf-blind woman deafer than deaf-blind man

Researchers found female patients with Wolfram syndrome have significantly worse hearing than male patients. The study also discovered that USH2a patients' hearing loss gradually deteriorates over time.

Superconducting R&D wire achieves major milestone

The company has achieved an industrial world record by producing second-generation superconducting wires with high amperage electrical current and virtually no resistance. This technology can increase the efficiency of large electric motors by up to 50% and enable smaller, more powerful magnetic resonance imaging machines.

Rx pain medicines hard to find in pharmacies serving minority neighborhoods

A University of Michigan team found that only half of pharmacies in non-white areas had a sufficient supply of opioid painkillers. Pharmacies in wealthier ZIP codes tended to have better supplies, while those in poorer areas were less likely to carry the drugs due to perceived threats of robbery and street value.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Tobacco plant refuses cowpea mosaic virus

Researchers discovered that certain tobacco plant species are resistant to the cowpea mosaic virus. The virus spreads through a plant's vascular system, causing damage and death, but the specific channels it uses to transmit the virus were identified. This knowledge could lead to strategies for creating virus-resistant crops.

New data shows Seroquel achieves remission in bipolar mania

A new study shows that Seroquel achieves remission in bipolar mania, with a significant increase in remission rates over time. The medication has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of racing thoughts, reckless behavior, and decreased sleep.

Closing in on treatment for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease?

Scientists have identified genetic mutations in heat shock proteins linked to Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a debilitating disorder affecting peripheral nerves. The study's findings hold promise for developing new therapies and improving diagnosis.

Eating disorder behaviors linked to suicide risks

A study by Gabriella Milos and colleagues found that women with anorexia were more likely to have suicidal thoughts than those with bulimia or other disorders. The researchers also discovered a link between purging behaviors and increased suicide risk, suggesting a possible connection to lack of impulse control.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Losing a job near retirement age significantly increases risk of stroke

Researchers at Yale University found that losing a job near retirement age significantly increases the risk of stroke. The study, which analyzed data from six years of the national Health and Retirement Survey, identified 457 workers who were either laid off or left jobless due to a plant shutdown.

American genetic abnormality also discovered in the Netherlands

A researcher has identified a genetic abnormality affecting American DFNA9 syndrome patients also present in Dutch families, including BOR syndrome, leading to valuable insights into the progression of diseases. The discovery highlights the importance of gene matching research for identifying new candidate genes.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Sea turtle health linked to contaminants

A new study led by Duke University and NIST found a correlation between sea turtle health and high levels of toxic organic chemicals. The research team analyzed blood and fat samples from 48 juvenile turtles in North Carolina waters, discovering changes in immune function, liver damage, and protein regulation.

Old Indian spells unmask centuries-old rituals

Researchers have translated 43 hymns from the Atharvaveda into English, providing insight into centuries-old rituals. The hymns, written in Vedic Sanskrit, were used by priests to venerate gods, heal diseases, and exorcise evil spirits.

Record: Fastest flashing star

Astronomer Steve van Straaten discovered a binary star with a vibrational frequency of 1330 Hz, the highest ever recorded. This finding allows researchers to develop new models for movement in the vicinity of a neutron star.

It's a gamble: Dopamine levels tied to uncertainty of rewards

Research at Vanderbilt University found that dopamine transmission increases in response to uncertain reward scenarios, such as gambling. The study used PET scanners to measure brain activity in nine human subjects and discovered localized regions showing increased or decreased dopamine release.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Could autoantibodies predict future disease in healthy people?

Recent research suggests that autoantibodies can identify individuals at risk of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes. Autoantibodies were detected in healthy individuals years before the onset of symptoms, paving the way for potential preventive treatments and improved disease management.

Can a computer judge acoustic quality?

Researchers aim to develop AI system that can assess acoustic qualities of spaces using music played in the room. The project has £70,000 funding and could provide solutions for architects and the construction industry.

Analysis uncovers critical stretches of human genome

Researchers have identified critical stretches of ultra-conserved DNA sequences in the human genome, found near well-studied genes and involved in regulating transcription. These elements were also conserved across multiple species, including rats, mice, chickens, and even ancient genomes like those of sea squirts and roundworms.

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Nano-scale trees created at Lund Institute of Technology

Researchers at Lund Institute of Technology have created nanoscale trees using controlled seeding, enabling complex structures for various applications. The technology offers potential for converting sunlight to electricity and creating efficient light panels.

World's oldest modern hummingbirds described in Science

The discovery of modern hummingbirds in Europe pushes the fossil record back approximately 29 million years and zips halfway around the world. The tiny skeletons found in southern Germany exhibit characteristics such as tiny size, long beaks, and wing design similar to today's hummingbirds.

Ritalin may improve Parkinson's symptoms, OHSU study says

A study by OHSU found that methylphenidate, Ritalin, increases the effects of levodopa on dopamine levels, improving symptoms such as tapping and walking speeds. In contrast, paroxetine had no effect on physical symptoms but increased walking speed in Parkinson's patients.

Survey of adults reveals life-long consequences of ADHD

A survey of adults reveals long-term consequences of ADHD, including lower educational achievement, relationship instability, and higher rates of stress, depression, and substance abuse. Adults with ADHD are also more likely to experience negative self-image and engage in harmful behaviors.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

World first: computer games that can boost self esteem

Researchers at McGill University have developed three computer games that can help people feel more positive about themselves and build their self-esteem. The games, Wham!, EyeSpy: The Matrix, and Grow Your Chi, work by training players to focus on positive feedback and develop automatic thought patterns that boost confidence.

Scientists uncover how brain retrieves and stores older memories

Researchers have discovered that the anterior cingulate cortex plays a crucial role in storing and retrieving lifelong memories. The study, led by Dr. Paul Frankland, found that older memories are transferred from the hippocampus to the cortex over several weeks, likely during sleep.

CAD acts as 'intelligent colleague' in detecting polyps in the colon

A new CAD system has been shown to detect 77% of computer-identified false positives, leading to more accurate polyp detection. The technology holds promise for increasing widespread colon cancer screening due to its ability to significantly reduce the difficulty and time required for exam interpretation.

Climate variation in the tropical Pacific: coral provides proof

A giant fossil coral found in Vanuatu provides evidence of the Younger Dryas period's significant cooling event, which affected the tropics. The coral's growth rate and chemical composition reveal that sea surface temperatures were on average 4.5°C lower than present during this time.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.